Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Tony Stewart (Penn St.) - 2001 NFL Draft Pick #147 by PHI

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Tony Stewart - 2001 NFL Draft

Tony Stewart, a standout player from Penn State, entered the 2001 NFL Draft with a solid reputation and a strong college career. Here’s a breakdown of his pre-draft analysis:

• Position: Linebacker
• College: Penn State
• Height: 6'0"
• Weight: 230 lbs

Strengths:

• Speed and Agility: Tony exhibited impressive speed for his size, allowing him to cover ground quickly and close in on ball carriers.
• Football IQ: Demonstrated a strong understanding of the game, which helped him read plays effectively and anticipate opponents' moves.
• Tackling Ability: Known for his strong tackling technique, he could bring down runners and receivers with authority.
• Versatility: Capable of playing multiple linebacker positions, making him an asset in various defensive schemes.

Areas for Improvement:

• Size: While effective at the college level, some scouts expressed concerns about his size relative to NFL standards for linebackers.
• Injury History: Had a few minor injuries during his college career, raising concerns about durability at the next level.
• Pass Coverage: Although proficient against the run, there were questions about his ability to cover tight ends and running backs in passing situations.

Overall Assessment:

Tony Stewart was viewed as a solid linebacker prospect with the potential to contribute immediately on special teams and develop into a reliable starter. His combination of speed, intelligence, and tackling prowess made him an intriguing choice for teams looking to bolster their defense.

The 2001 NFL Draft offered a mix of talent, and while Stewart was not the most hyped linebacker, he had the tools necessary to carve out a successful professional career.